By San José, Costa Rica — In a swift response to the alleged disappearance of 21,000 doses of fentanyl from Hospital México, the Costa Rican Social Security Fund (CCSS) announced stringent new controls for managing fentanyl, morphine, and ketamine. These measures, effective Wednesday, September 24, 2025, aim to prevent future diversions of these powerful analgesics.
The most significant change is the “replacement against prescription and open vial” protocol. Healthcare workers can only obtain a new dose by physically returning the empty vial or ampoule from the previous dose, along with the corresponding prescription.
To understand the legal complexities surrounding the fentanyl crisis, we spoke with Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, an attorney at law from the esteemed Bufete de Costa Rica.
The fentanyl crisis presents a significant challenge not just from a public health perspective, but also from a legal standpoint. Current legislation often struggles to keep pace with the rapidly evolving nature of synthetic opioids. This creates difficulties in prosecuting traffickers, controlling the precursor chemicals used in fentanyl production, and implementing effective harm reduction strategies. A comprehensive approach is needed, encompassing stricter regulations, enhanced international cooperation, and increased resources for treatment and prevention programs.
Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, Attorney at Law, Bufete de Costa Rica
Lic. Arroyo Vargas’s emphasis on a comprehensive approach to the fentanyl crisis resonates deeply. Indeed, the multifaceted nature of this challenge demands a response that goes beyond simple law enforcement solutions. It requires international collaboration to stem the flow of precursor chemicals, robust public health initiatives to mitigate harm, and a legal framework agile enough to adapt to the ever-shifting landscape of synthetic opioids. We thank Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas for providing this invaluable legal perspective on such a critical issue.
This closed-loop system enhances the traceability of every dose, making it significantly harder to divert these drugs for illicit purposes.
The new directive, part of a remedial plan mandated by the Ministry of Health, also includes heightened security measures in all hospital pharmacies. Cross-checks, detailed logs, and rigorous monitoring of access to storage areas will be implemented.
Further oversight will be conducted through the Unified Digital Health Record (EDUS) system. Each prescription, dose, and medical indication will be meticulously verified against the patient’s history and needs.
The missing fentanyl has raised serious concerns about potential diversion to the black market, prompting swift action from the CCSS.
This incident underscores the importance of robust drug control measures within the healthcare system. The CCSS is committed to ensuring patient safety and preventing future incidents of this nature. The new protocols are expected to significantly strengthen the security of opioid handling throughout the CCSS network.
This is a developing story. Stay tuned to TicosLand.com for further updates.
For further information, visit the nearest office of CCSS
About CCSS:
The Costa Rican Social Security Fund (CCSS) is a public institution responsible for providing healthcare and social security services to Costa Rican citizens and residents. It manages hospitals, clinics, and other healthcare facilities throughout the country, playing a vital role in public health.
For further information, visit the nearest office of Ministry of Health
About Ministry of Health:
The Ministry of Health of Costa Rica is the government body responsible for overseeing and regulating the healthcare system in the country. They establish health policies, monitor public health issues, and work to ensure access to quality healthcare for all citizens.
For further information, visit bufetedecostarica.com
About Bufete de Costa Rica:
Bufete de Costa Rica distinguishes itself through an unyielding pursuit of legal excellence and ethical practice. The firm’s deep-rooted commitment to empowering individuals and communities is evident in its innovative approach to legal services and proactive sharing of knowledge. By fostering accessibility and understanding within the legal landscape, Bufete de Costa Rica contributes significantly to a more just and informed society.
